Why is Anti-Harassment Training Important for Employees?

Harassment in the workplace can take many forms, from sexist comments to racial slurs or malicious jokes. If left unaddressed within an organization’s policies and culture, pervasive problems may arise. This is why effective anti-harassment training for employees is such an important element in workplace culture today. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of anti-harassment training for employees so that organizations in can have a safe working environment where employees feel respected and protected.

Here are some reasons why such training is important:

Anti-harassment training raises awareness about what constitutes harassment and educates employees on appropriate workplace behavior. It helps prevent incidents of harassment before they occur.

Providing anti-harassment training ensures that organizations comply with legal requirements. In many jurisdictions, employers are legally obligated to provide such training to their employ-ees. Training empowers employees by making them aware of their rights and options if they experience or witness harassment. It encourages them to speak up and take action. Anti-harassment training contributes to building a positive organizational culture. It sends a clear message that harassment will not be tolerated, fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace.

What happens when anti-harassment training is not a part of workplace culture? Let’s look at some examples of the fallout.

• The Case of Susan Fowler and Uber: In 2017, former Uber engineer Susan Fowler wrote a blog post detailing her experiences of sexual harassment at the company. Her account shed light on a toxic work culture that allowed harassment to persist. This incident led to a major public backlash against Uber and prompted the company to address its internal issues.
• Fox News and Gretchen Carlson Lawsuit: In 2016, news anchor Gretchen Carlson filed a lawsuit against Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, alleging sexual harassment and a toxic work environment. The subsequent investigation revealed a pattern of harassment at the network. The lawsuit resulted in the resignation of Roger Ailes and sparked a broader conversation about workplace harassment in the media industry.

Harassed at work? Seek legal advice

Not every workplace has anti-harassment policies and even those that do sometimes have indi-viduals that act inappropriately within the organization. Employees that feel they have a case due to being harassed should contact an employment lawyer for advice.

An employment lawyer can provide expert advice regarding the specific laws and regulations related to workplace harassment. They can help individuals understand their rights and legal options. Lawyers can advocate for their clients and help them navigate complex legal proce-dures. If appropriate, a lawyer can engage in negotiation with the employer or their legal rep-resentation. They can work towards a fair settlement that compensates the individual for the harm caused by harassment. In the event that the case proceeds to litigation, having a lawyer provides individuals with professional representation. Lawyers can present arguments, examine witnesses, and handle the legal complexities involved in court proceedings.

How to Find an Employment Lawyer in New Jersey

If you have been subjected to harassment at work or want to change your work culture to avoid such legal issues, then contact Zatuchni & Associates. Our team has been helping improve workplaces and people’s lives for years. Contact us today to learn more about our legal services in New Jersey that can help with harassment in the workplace.